Bladder cancer may not have many symptoms. If you experience any symptoms, do not assume it is due to cancer. Many symptoms can be caused by other, less serious conditions, such as urinary tract infections. However, it is still important to discuss them with your doctor. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes for both cancer and other health conditions.

The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. The urine may appear brown, rust colored, or it may have visible blood clots in it.
Typically, bloody urine is intermittent, meaning it may appear one day and disappear another. This does not mean there is not a problem or that it goes away. Anytime blood appears in the urine, even if there is no pain, it should be reported to your doctor.

Irritation to the bladder can affect how it holds and passes urine. Symptoms of irritation include:

Increased frequency of urination

Intense urgency when needing to urinate

Pain and/or burning with urination

Inability to hold urine

Obstructive problems such as:

Decreased force of stream

Intermittent stream

Straining

Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder

Later stages of cancer may cause:

Sensation of a pelvic mass

Pain in the abdomen, lower back, or side caused by pressure on nearby nerves

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.